Progress Report
Huntsville City Schools News & Updates: August 28, 2026
Promoting Proper Behavior on School Buses
As we begin the school year, HCS is asking families for their support in reinforcing expectations for appropriate student behavior on school buses.
School buses are an extension of the school environment, and students are expected to follow the same standards of conduct while riding the bus as they do during the school day.
We encourage parents and guardians to speak with their students about the importance of following bus rules, listening to the driver, remaining appropriately seated, treating others with respect, and avoiding behavior that may disrupt the bus.
Students who engage in inappropriate or disruptive behavior on school buses are subject to disciplinary consequences in accordance with the HCS Student Code of Conduct, which may include the loss of bus-riding privileges.
Thank you for partnering with us to help ensure our school buses remain safe and orderly environments for all students.
Calendar Dates
View the HCS Calendar for a complete listing of district-level dates and to learn more about each event.
- September 7: Labor Day Observed (All Schools & Offices Closed)
- September 8: Progress Reports Available
- September 19: 2026 Health & Wellness Fair
- October 2: End of First Grading Period
- October 5-9: Fall Break (No School for Teachers & Students)
- October 9: Fall Break (All Schools & Offices Closed)
- October 16: Report Cards Available
Breakfast and Lunch Information
District Announcements
Fall Athletic Protocols 2026
The following protocols are in place for fall sports:
Spectators may be subject to metal/weapon detection upon entry.
Athletic Event Bag Procedures will be in effect, which includes a clear bag policy. See more information about permitted and prohibited bags and other items in the Athletic Event Bag Procedures section on the Athletics Webpage.
Tickets may be purchased through GoFan. View the Ticket Prices & Online Purchasing section on the Athletics Webpage.
Tickets may also be purchased using cash at the venue site.
Concession information is available in the Concessions section on the Athletics Webpage, which includes a link to conveniently order concessions online!
Loitering in the parking lot, re-entries to the stadium, and crossing over between home and away sides will not be permitted.
We ask for parental support in providing supervision to their children at the game.
"See something, say something" to report any suspicious or unusual activity to law enforcement and campus security personnel.
District Highlights
Lee High Creative & Performing Arts Earns National Magnet Certification
Lee High School's Creative and Performing Arts Magnet has earned national recognition for the strength and quality of its magnet program by receiving Nationally Certified Magnet School status from Magnet Schools of America (MSA).
The designation recognizes Lee's commitment to providing students with high-quality, innovative learning opportunities through its Creative and Performing Arts Magnet while promoting academic excellence, student choice and strong community partnerships.
For more information view: Lee High Magnet Certification.
HCS Welcomes Dr. Rachel Poovey as New Deputy Superintendent
HCS is excited to welcome Dr. Rachel Poovey as our new Deputy Superintendent of Teaching & Learning!
Dr. Poovey brings more than 30 years of experience in public education. Most recently, she served as assistant superintendent for teaching and learning with Trussville City Schools following a 25+ year career in Decatur City Schools.
During her time in Decatur, Dr. Poovey served in various roles, including developmental services coordinator, elementary supervisor, middle and elementary school principal, assistant principal and special education teacher.
HCS Teacher Named as a Finalist for National Award
Heather Hall, a STEM teacher at Montview Elementary School, has been named one of six finalists for the 2026 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year, an honor presented by the National Center for Families Learning, with support from Toyota.
Streak Snapped for Columbia High Football
Columbia High School has ended the nation’s longest high school football losing streak with a 41-14 win over Greensboro.
After starting the game trailing 14-0, the Eagles scored 41 unanswered points to kick off the season with a win. Under the leadership of second-year head coach Sammie Coates, the victory snapped a 101 game losing streak and marked Columbia's first win since October 16, 2015 on the road at Ardmore.
Grit, heart, and belief carried these student athletes and coaches, and tonight they rewrote the story. Tonight, the Eagles rise!
Watch: Columbia Wins Highlights or Greensboro vs Columbia Football.
Upcoming Events
Labor Day September 7
Schools and offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 7 in observance of Labor Day.
2026 Health & Wellness Fair September 19
Huntsville City Schools, in partnership with the Madison County Legislative Delegation, invites parents, students, and families to join us for a morning focused on building strong minds, healthy bodies, and brighter futures!
Fair Details:
- Saturday, September 19, 2026
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Center for Technology (2603 North Memorial Parkway, Huntsville, AL 35810)
This FREE community event is open to families from Huntsville City Schools, Madison City Schools, Madison County Schools, private schools, and homeschool students!
What to expect:
Self-Regulation Strategies for K–5
Substance Awareness & Safety for Grades 6–12
Abuse Awareness & Safety for Grades 6–12
Keynote & Closing Panel Discussion
FREE pizza & drinks
Giveaways & door prizes
Community resources and support for the entire family!
Complete the Health & Wellness Fair Registration Form today!
We want our families there! Come learn, connect, ask questions, and discover resources designed to support the health and well-being of our students.
We are investing in the health and well-being of today’s students for a stronger tomorrow!
HCS is Now Hiring
View open positions and apply now by visiting huntsvillecityschools.org/jobs.
First Student is Hiring Bus Drivers
NOW HIRING: School Bus Drivers & Monitors!
Looking for a meaningful way to make an impact in your community? First Student is hiring!
- Paid CDL training
- Starting pay: $21.85/hr (Driver) | $13.50/hr (Monitor)
- 4-hour daily guarantee + weekly pay
- Child ride-along program
- Extra earning potential
WALK-IN WEDNESDAY:
- Every Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- 2906 McJohn Circle SW, Huntsville, AL 35805
Apply, interview, and take the first step toward a rewarding career! Apply now: First Student.
City of Huntsville Hiring Safety Patrol Aides
The City of Huntsville’s Public Safety division is seeking qualified applicants to fill part-time Safety Patrol Aide positions. Safety Patrol provides crossing guards for schools. Crossing guards help ensure the safety of school children each day at hazardous or congested school crossing locations. This is responsible work in expediting the safe movement of pedestrians and vehicular traffic in school zones or during special events.
Huntsville City Schools
The mission of Huntsville City Schools is to provide a safe and supportive learning environment characterized by quality staff, rigorous academic instruction, innovative programs, outstanding extracurricular opportunities, and exceptional resources.
Connect with HCS
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